HISD kicks off National Literacy Month with ribbon-cutting ceremony

Harlandale ISD officially kicked off National Literacy Month with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony for one of the seven mini libraries on Sept. 3

Students, staff and community members gathered to unveil the new mini library located in front of Gilbert Elementary School.

The project was created by Eagle Scout Christopher Cortez, who wanted to make a difference in the community and encourage every student to read more, especially during National Literacy Month.

“I’ve always loved helping people,” said Christopher. “Helping the youth and just seeing the kid’s smile, that’s all I needed to make my day.”

Enclosed in each two-shelf library is a wide selection of books in English and Spanish for all ages, which were donated by Christopher and Harlandale ISD Coordinator for Libraries and Instructional Materials Lisa Kulka.

“We want to encourage everyone to bring books and share with our little free libraries,” said Kulka. “This is great for our community because anytime we can give students additional access to books, it’s going to give them more opportunities for reading.”

There are currently two other mini libraries already available to use in the district located at Central Office and Morrill Elementary School. The remaining four will open at various elementary schools in the near future.

Several campuses will be scheduling events for National Literacy Month. Click here to view.

*Schedules subject to change. For more information please call your home campus.